Staff members at a women’s emergency shelter in Sanikiluaq, Nunavut, have been eagerly anticipating the arrival of their first clients for an extended period. Bev Rumley, the shelter’s director, expressed frustration at the prolonged delay in opening the Triple R Women’s Emergency Shelter. Originally scheduled for completion in December 2024 with funding from the federal government, the shelter is still not operational nearly two years later. However, there is hope that the wait may soon be over.
Rumley emphasized the importance of ensuring that the facility is fully prepared to receive clients, particularly women in vulnerable situations who should not have to worry about the shelter’s readiness. Dinah Kittosuk and Mary Mickiyuk, members of the shelter staff, are also eager to begin providing support to those in need.
The shelter aims to primarily assist women from other Nunavut communities, offering a safe haven and distance from potential abusers. While local women may temporarily stay at the shelter, they are then directed to emergency shelters in other parts of Nunavut.
Various issues have delayed the shelter’s opening, as confirmed by Robert Hedley, the senior administrative officer of the Municipality of Sanikiluaq. Plans are in place to address design flaws at the $10 million facility, with hopes of opening within approximately five weeks.
Rumley highlighted some of the challenges, such as a malfunctioning boiler, inadequate fuel supply, and the need for additional kitchen facilities and accessible amenities. Despite these setbacks, efforts are being made to create a welcoming environment, including decorating the shelter with animal-themed stickers and providing rooms of different sizes and bed types.
The staff’s dedication to making the shelter a comforting space for families is evident in their plans for activities like sewing and crafting. The ultimate goal is to offer a supportive environment where mothers can relax, bond with their children, and contemplate their future with a sense of security.
